Herbal supplements may trigger dangerous heart rhythm disorders in young people – expert
Teens and young adults are increasingly turning to herbal supplements to improve their health, but a new study warns that some of these products may actually trigger serious heart problems.
The study, published in the journal JAMA Cardiology, analyzed cases of young people who developed life-threatening heart rhythm disorders after taking herbal supplements.
The researchers found that nearly half of the patients were taking supplements for weight loss or energy boost, and that the most common offenders were products containing ephedra, caffeine, or guarana.
What’s more, the vast majority of the patients (82 percent) were taking more than one supplement, which the researchers say increases the risk of dangerous interactions.
While herbal supplements are often marketed as safe and natural alternatives to conventional medications, this study underscores the potential risks they can pose, especially for young people whose bodies are still developing.
If you or a loved one is considering taking an herbal supplement, be sure to speak with a healthcare professional first to weigh the risks and benefits.
According to a new study, herbal supplements may trigger dangerous heart rhythm disorders in young people. The study, which is published in the journal Heart, is the first to examine the potential link between herbal supplements and cardiac arrhythmias.
Herbal supplements are widely used for their purported health benefits, but little is known about their safety. The new study found that taking herbal supplements was associated with a nearly three-fold increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a type of cardiac arrhythmia.
Atrial fibrillation is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause stroke, heart failure, and other complications. The condition is particularly dangerous in young people, as it can lead to sudden cardiac death.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Mohammad Madjid, warned that herbal supplements “should be used with caution, particularly in young adults.” He advised people who take herbal supplements to “discuss their use with their healthcare provider.”
The study’s findings add to the growing body of evidence linking herbal supplements to adverse health effects. Last year, a study found that taking herbal supplements was associated with an increased risk of death. And earlier this year, another study found that taking herbal supplements was linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Herbal supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration, and many of them have not been tested for safety. As such, consumers should be aware of the potential risks of taking these supplements.
